by For many, the most daunting part of a long-haul trip is the inevitable, inevitable transfer at an intermediary airport. Often, travelers have enough time to be bored – after eating at the restaurant and browsing duty free – but they don’t feel confident enough that it’s worth traveling into this stopover city. Fortunately, some airlines have realized that these layouts are a great opportunity to extend a holiday.
Whether it’s one night in Istanbul or 10 days in Iceland, many operators allow travelers to extend their trip at no extra cost. Some provide discounted or even free accommodation. Here are the best long-haul deals, as well as how to make the most of your time in the cities.
Up to 10 days in Iceland with PLAY and Icelandair
Low-cost long-haul operator PLAY has been transferring passengers between Europe and the US since 2019. It’s certainly an attractive way to get out of the state, with prices starting from as little as £91. The Icelandic operator also has another advantage: all transatlantic flights include a stop in their country of origin, but passengers can choose to stay in Reykjavík for up to 10 days – each way – at no extra cost. Accommodation is not included, although PLAY has a section on its website that recommends places to stay, car hire options and activities to book.
Flying with Icelandair? The Nordic company has a similar deal for its transatlantic flights, offering a free stopover in Iceland for between one and seven nights. Find out more on their website.
Either way, a trip to Iceland’s capital would not be complete without a visit to the rocket-shaped Hallgrímskirkja church, or – if volcanic activity permits – a dip in the city’s geothermal pools.
Read more in our guide to Iceland.
Two free hotel stays and a city discount in Abu Dhabi with Etihad
The capital of the UAE, travelers flying long distances with Etihad may change in Abu Dhabi. It may not be a destination that one usually considers for a holiday, however, so the operator is keen to emphasize its charms. Travelers can stay, free of charge, for up to two nights in a selected hotel, plus claim up to 30 percent off holidays and restaurant meals during the stay. Etihad also runs a free shuttle bus service around the city.
Those looking for something artistic may want to explore the newly opened Louvre or visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Read more in our guide to Abu Dhabi.
Up to 10 days to spend in Lisbon and Porto with TAP
TAP, the Portuguese flag carrier, offers a similar scheme for people traveling via Lisbon or Porto. Those who wish to travel in either city are entitled to stay up to 10 days (although it only applies to an outbound or inbound journey – not both). Discounts are available on hotel stays, and TAP offers a reduced fare for more domestic flights, including to the Azores and Madeira.
Those staying in Porto – one of the most affordable cities in Europe – should walk along the banks of the Douro river, stopping in one of the sidewalk cafes for a glass of wine. Or, make the most of your time in Lisbon and visit the city’s most famous pastel de nata bakery, Pastéis de Belém.
Read more in our guides on Porto and Lisbon.
Turkish Airlines stands up to two hotels in Istanbul
Connecting via Istanbul with Turkish Airlines? If your layover lasts more than 20 hours, the airline offers a free stay in one of its partner hotels. Economy passengers are entitled to one night in a four-star hotel, while business class flyers can stay up to two nights in a five-star. There is a slightly complicated application process – more details can be found on the Turkish Airlines website – but Istanbul is a vibrant and energetic city, and definitely worth a visit.
Go to the Hagia Sophia – now, unfortunately, ticketed – for a glimpse of the great heritage of the city, or travel across the Bosphorus on a ferry to experience Europe and Asia in one trip.
Read more in our guide to Istanbul.
Qatar, Doha
Qatar promises “local culture, desert adventures and fine dining” on its stopover program, which allows travelers to stay in Doha for up to four nights. Passengers can stay in one of the airline’s partner hotels at a greatly reduced price: one night in the four-star “Standard” hotel starts at £11, ranging through “Premium” (£18), “Premium Beach” (£ 23 ) to “Luxury” (£63). Among the attractions is Fuwairit Kite Beach, a water sports center in the north of the country. For travelers looking to stretch their legs, it’s definitely one option.
Visitors hoping to take advantage of the scheme will need to register for a visa. The e-visa scheme, on the Hayya platform, is detailed on its website.
Iberia, Madrid
Back in Europe, Iberia offers stays in Madrid for those who will be taking another route through the city with the airline. Booked for up to nine days on the outbound or inbound journey, its “Stopover Hola Madrid” scheme includes discounts on tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace, as well as more practical savings on e-Sims and taxi rides. However, hotels are not included in the deal.
If you are looking for somewhere to stay, our experts recommend the Plaza España Skyline (nights from £ 113) or the Palacio Plaza Conde de Miranda, whose rates start at £ 183 per night.
Read more in our guide to Madrid.
